Fayetteville, West Virginia has progressed over its history from a remote farming area to a well-loved tourist destination. This little town of just under 3000 people has outdoor adventure, great dining, and exciting festivals. It’s no wonder that Fayetteville has been named one of the “Top 10 Coolest Small Towns in America” by Budget Travel Magazine in 2006, and the “Best River Town” by Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine in 2013.
The town of Fayetteville was originally called Vandalia, after its founder Abraham Vandal.
The town grew rapidly in the late 19th century, with help from the coal industry.
This was part of the now abandoned Kaymoor Coal Mine.
Coal mining eventually died out in the area, but Fayetteville wisely made the most of tourism opportunities.
The New River has attracted many outdoor enthusiasts over the years.
Folks looking to raft down the river can visit the nearby Adventures On The Gorge. Find out about all sorts of outdoor adventures at
219 Chestnutburg Rd.
Lansing, West Virginia.
The town attracts thousands of visitors each year for the annual Bridge Day, the one day a year that people can jump off the New River Gorge bridge.
The event takes place each October, and visitors can enjoy food and festivities in addition to the daredevil stunts.
If you can't make it to Bridge Day or jumping is just a little too intense, you can take a guided tour across the underside of the bridge any day of the year.
The tours are offered by Bridge Walk. Find them at Fayette Mine Rd & Us-19, Fayetteville, WV 25840.
Or get a birds-eye view of the gorge in a World War II Stearman biplane.
Wild Blue Adventure Company offers sightseeing plane tours or an aerobatic thrill rides. Find them at 282 Hinkle Rd, Fayetteville, West Virginia.
You can try your hand at rock climbing in the New River Gorge around Fayetteville.
Hard Rock Climbing offers lessons and guided climbing tours. Find them at 131 South Court Street, Fayetteville, WV 25840.
If you prefer your exploration with a little less thrill-seeking, try renting a bike to see the sights and trails around town.
New River Bikes offers rentals and bikes for purchase. Find them at
221 N Court St., Fayetteville, West Virginia 25840.
If outdoor adventure is just a little too wild for your taste, challenge your mind at the Epic Escape Game.
Solve puzzles and put together clues in a story to "escape" the room. Find them at 151 North Court Street, Fayetteville, West Virginia.
All of that excitement is sure to work up an appetite! Grab a pizza and a beer at the original Pies and Pints.
The Grape Pie is like nothing else you've ever had, and will make you want to return to Fayetteville. Address: 219 W Maple Ave, Fayetteville, WV 25840.
Or try an incredibly creative sandwich or burger at Secret Sandwich Society.
You won't want to keep this place a secret! Address: 103 1/2 Keller Ave, Fayetteville, WV 25840.
There’s so much to see and do here that you’ll want to visit again and again. We’re lucky to have such a fascinating place in West Virginia!
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